Do MBT Shoes Really Work?

MBT stands for Masai Barefoot Technology. The company that makes MBT Shoes (also known as the anti-shoe) is Swiss Masai. The uniquely-designed, multi-layered, cured sole is designed to simulate walking in sand (similar to the natural walking environment of the Masai in Kenya). This creates a natural, uneven walking surface and forces the body to use all the major and stabilsing muscle groups, thus training the whole body to move correctly.

Do MBT Shoes Really Work?

Many people wonder if MBT Shoes really work. In this review, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of MBT Shoes, best place to buy them online, and what you can expect if you decide to purchase them.

Some of the claims made about MBT Shoes include:

They activate neglected muscles

They improve posture and gait

They tone and shape the body

They can help with back, hip, leg, and foot problems

They can help with joint, muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries

They reduce stress on knee and hip joints

I've owned my MBT Shoes for over three years - using them primarily for taking 3-4 mile walks. Once you become comfortable walking in MBT Shoes, you will notice your calf muscles will be worked in a way you don't experience in ordinary shoes. For the first few times you wear them, after about 20 minutes the soreness goes away, and walking seems effortless. Your stride shortens and becomes quicker, and you naturally walk with your back straight and stomach pulled in.

One of the claims you may have heard is walking one mile in MBT Shoes is the equivalent workout of walking two miles in ordinary walking shoes. I was unable to find any studies to substantiate this claim. Personally I have noticed my muscles get more of a workout when I am wearing MBT Shoes. Since I purchased them they caused me to me more motivated to walk more, and for longer distances, which has lead to weight loss. This is pretty common, and I have heard the same thing from others who wear them.

I have had chronic back pain my entire adult life, and walking in these shoes takes the strain off my back. I have also talked to several people who also own MBT Shoes, and they say they are the only shoes they wear because they relieve their back pain.

Another question people ask all the time is...

Where Can I Buy MBT Shoes?

Most cities have one (or two) stores that carry MBT Shoes. The problem is, local stores don't carry all the styles and sizes. I tried MBTs on at two different local stores, and in both cases I was presented with shoes that were a half size too large (and told the heel should be loose when wearing them). The truth is, the heel should be snug. Both stores did let me walk around in them. I even walked outside the store, but you really need 20-30 minutes to get used to them. When you first walk in MBT Shoes, you tend to walk on the balls of your feet (instead of walking from heel to toe). You feel like you are walking on stilts, and you feel a bit unsteady. Trying them on in the local store actually reduced my confidence in them, because you don't have time to get comfortable in them.

A better approach is to purchase them online. Most MBT Shoe styles run true to size. If you normally wear a half size, purchasing them online may be your best option to choose between all sizes (including half sizes).

Local shoe stores usually do not carry half sizes. I would not recommend buying a size that is that is a half size large or small. Because of the way the heal sensor works a smaller size could be tight around your toes, and a larger size could cause your heel to side up and down in the back of the shoe. Spend 20-30 minutes walking around your home with them to make sure they are a good fit.

Another frequently asked question is...

Can You Run In MBT Shoes?

I personally wouldn't recommend it. MBT Shoes are made for walking. Because of the collapsible heel, running in these shoes is difficult and takes some practise. You can jog in them, using short strides. Swiss Masai calls this floating. The motion is different than regular jogging. MBT Shoes are best used for walking and normal daily activities. However, Kenyans often win marathons using this type of stride.

MBT Shoe Size Conversion Table

Men's Shoes Size US

MBT Sizes

Women Shoes Size US

MBT Sizes

Size 8

Size 41

Size 5.5

Size 35

Size 8.5

Size 41 2/3

Size 6

Size 35 2/3

Size 9

Size 42 1/3

Size 6.5

Size 36 1/3

Size 9.5

Size 43

Size 7

Size 37

Size 10

Size 43 2/3

Size 7.5

Size 37 2/3

Size 10.5

Size 44 1/3

Size 8

Size 38 1/3

Size 11

Size 45

Size 8.5

Size 39

Size 11.5

Size 45 2/3

Size 9

Size 39 2/3

Size 12

Size 46 1/3

Size 9.5

Size 40 1/3

Size 12.5

Size 47

Size 10

Size 41

Customer MBT Shoes Reviews

I usually read many reviews before I make a significant purchase. One of the things that impressed me the most, before I purchased my MBT Shoes, was the overwhelming number of positive customer reviews on these shoes. There are literally hundreds of MBT Shoes Reviews by customers, and I couldn't find a single legitimate negative review. A few people complained about the shoes size being too small, or they had an issue with the store they purchased them from (which is far and away the most common complaint). 100% of the reviewers had positive things to say about the quality of the shoes. Simply put, if you spend any significant time on your feet, MBT Shoes will be the most comfortable shoes you will ever wear. Everyone who owns them absolutely loves them.

The 2014 Fall Line of MBT Shoes

Have you seen the new MBTs? MBT has a great new line of shoes - available from our recommended online retailer (just click the New Arrivals link). They are the only retailer that carries all of the new MBT styles.

The new Fall line of MBT Shoes features the women's Budu, Raawiya, Time Service Lace, Hiari Lace, and Jahi. The men's Isimo Military, Ubora, 1996 Limited Edition Celtic, Time Service Lace, and Zuberi Lace. This year's New Fall Line is one of their best yet.

The 2015 Fall Line of MBT Shoes on Sale

The new line, which includes the women's Himaya GTX, Leasha Trail 5 Lace-Up, and the Afiya. Prices starting at $174.95. And the men's Himaya GTX, Asante 5S, Simba Lace, and the Jengo 5 Sport Neutral. My new favorite? The Himaya GTX. A little pricey coming in at $219.95, but it is a waterproof shoe that looks great.

Please Note: Many of the MBT Shoes that are discount priced have limited quantities. If you find a style you like in your size - buy it, because it may not be available the next time you check. They have the largest selection of MBT Shoes on Clearance you will find anywhere, but they do go fast. When I bought mine I liked them so much after the first couple of weeks, I went back to purchase a second pair and they were out of my size.

Back to the original question....

Do MBT Shoes really work? The answer is YES. If you decide to purchase them, you will be very happy with them.

They look funky, although I would be so into wearing them. anything for comfort on my feet. I've had bad experiences already to the point that i missed out on activities because my feet were in so much pain!

Wow! MBT presents great shoes. Believe me! they are the best. Let them be party shoes, casual or fashion boots, MBT offers you the best. These shoes provide a great feel coupled with extreme grip that is not present in other brands. Although they are expensive, but the money does really pay off.

DO NOT buy MBT shoes from mbtoutlet-us. If you have any problems they will not stand behind their product. They refuse to exchange or allow you to return. Their customer service department is unbelievably rude and are unable to write in undestandable English. They are located in China. Had I know this, I would have not bought the shoes from them. They do not send return information with their shoes nor will they give it to you by email. They do not have a customer service phone number. Whatever you buy from them, you are stuck with.

Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear you had such an problem with that vendor. Quality vendors may charge slightly more, but they are much easier to deal with when problem arise. Try the vendor I recommended. I am a long-time, and very happy, customer of theirs.

Make sure you are purchasing from an authorized reseller of MBT Shoes. MBT is becoming the most knocked-off shoe on the market. Currently their aren't any authorized resellers selling MBTs for less than $119 (and those are in very limited quantities because they are close out mbt shoes). If you find them selling for less than $100 they are not authentic.

This is one of the best reviews on mbt shoes I've seen. I purchased a pair a couple of weeks ago. I love them. Ordered a second pair (on sale) today. The store you recommend is great. Got the shoes in 3 days. Thanks!

Thank you for posting this! I am a die hard MBT fan; I've worn them all over the world. I have restless leg syndrome, and walking for just half an hour in these makes it so I can sleep at night. I hope to get a new pair soon!